An employee of an electronics chain promotes the release of Sony’s PlayStation 4 video game console in Tokyo on Feb. 22.

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The bulk of those Japan sales were achieved during the opening weekend. According to data released by Japanese videogame magazine publisher Enterbrain, Sony sold 322,083 units during the first two days, nearly four times the 88,443 units sold during the same launch period for its predecessor, the PS3.

Sadly, the sales numbers in Japan didn’t matter so much this time since Sony had already zipped past its internal target of 5 million units by March, even before a single PS4 unit was sold in its home market.

The continuing PS4 sales momentum is a much-needed boost for the Japanese tech giant, which is banking on a strong games division to help turn around its troubled electronics businesses.

In addition to consoles, Sony said PS4 software sales were also solid, with more than 13.7 million copies sold in retail stores and through digital downloads.

Andrew House, the head of Sony’s videogame division, attributed the initial success of the PS4 to the popularity of various social features that the company added, allowing players to communicate with friends and share game-play experiences.

“The responses we have received for the PS4 system’s integrated social capabilities have been phenomenal,” House said in a statement.

Company officials admit the real test is whether strong PS4 demand will continue through the console’s second year. Not only is the company counting on the game machine for profits — it’s also hoping the console will eventually act as a hub to connect with other Sony devices including the television, tablets and smartphones.